Reviews

Real moments, shared journeys

Mónica has shown herself to be a committed individual who is dedicated to her teaching relationship with her pupils, paying close attention to each one, identifying their individual needs and striving to help them discover their own personal brilliance in dance, in addition to the technique she teaches us.

Vera Baptista

Dedicated to her students, she has carried out extensive research into different dance styles, immersing herself in a variety of techniques and forms of expression. She manages to capture a sense of freshness and spontaneity when she dances, and her aim is to pass on that sense of freedom to her students – which, to me, is a real treasure.

Rita Fontes

Although we learnt different techniques from the Gypsy dances of Russia, Hungary and Romania, the main focus of the weekend was really the spirit of the ‘Rom’ style, or the ‘duende’ of the dance. Mónica proved to be experienced, skilful and fun, inspiring the group with her energy and enthusiasm. The room became a whirlwind of colour and joy as we twirled our enormous skirts and shawls, feeling euphoric with the music and the energy of the dance. The whole weekend was well-paced, with a good warm-up and stretching sessions.

Karine Butchart (Ireland)

A teacher with unique energy and vitality, and training in various areas of dance, which enriches every class. The learning process is tailored to the individual whilst also incorporating group dynamics. The sense of calm she conveys helps us to improve with every class, without any pressure.

Sónia Brito

She is attentive and sensitive to the needs of each pupil and knows how to guide them, always bringing out the best in each one’s individual qualities. She always creates an atmosphere of trust and comfort in her lessons. Her lessons are dynamic, creative and cheerful.

Cláudia Santos

It is essential that we dance through our bones, the grief and joy that we carry in our body, and remember. Last year at our gathering in Portugal, we danced the Romani Gypsy stories…and as we did our own surfaced, speaking of an untamed rhythm that declares freedom, resilience, and a history that cannot be silenced.In every stomp, swirl, and spin, we carried centuries of soul—grief and celebration braided into motion.

Romani dance is the body remembering when the voice is silenced—fierce, free, and overflowing with truth…To dance Romani is to move like fire—uncontained, unapologetic, and rooted in deep ancestral knowing.Romani dance is lived emotion—each gesture a story and each rhythm a heartbeat experienced.It is not taught—it is passed down, a lineage of feeling, not form.Thank you for passing it to us @monica.diez.roncon

Becky Hicks & Rüya Dream Günergin

(Kaynaktan Dance Retreat, Monte da Orada 2024)

photo credits: EVA ANJOS